A front-facing dash camera is one of the smartest pieces of technology you can install in your car or truck. A dash cam gives you essential video footage of an accident before and after the impact. Choosing the Thinkware U1000 vs Q800 Pro is tough but we think the Q800 Pro offers more than enough bang for a substantial savings. This review will explain why we think the Q800 Pro is the best choice. (>>> Check on Amazon)
Thinkware U1000 vs Q800 Pro side by side:
 |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Thinkware U1000 | Thinkware Q800 Pro | |
| Resolution (front) | 3840x2160 UHD 30FPS | 2560X1440P 30FPS |
| View angle | 150 degree | 140 degree |
| Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in GPS | Yes | Yes |
| Parking mode | Yes | Yes |
| Maximum capacity | 128 GB | 256 GB |
| Price | Find on Amazon BHPhotoVideo.com | Find on Amazon |
When you see these products side-by-side, you almost wonder if they are really made by the same company. Often, you see model ranges that look identical but that isn’t the case here. As we started to examine the unique features of these two fantastic products from Thinkware, we came to realize how different they are. In fact, it’s fair to say that they are meant for different kinds of drivers.
Appearance
The U1000 looks like a remote for a garage door opener. The boxy shape largely disappears when installed because it rests flat against the windshield. When it is installed it looks fine, but lacks a sleekness and sophistication that matches modern automobile interiors.
The Q800 Pro takes an entirely different approach to dash cam design. In fact, this design has won several awards. It features a similar flat pad to the U1000 but places the camera offset rather than vertically. It is both a more attractive design and provides a more stable image.
Winner
We prefer the appearance and quality feel of the Q800P over the higher priced U1000. It looks and feels like a quality product. The U1000 looks and feels fine, but it isn’t as interesting as the Q800 Pro.
Image Quality
The most important thing about any dash cam is how well it records video. A cute camera that shoots grainy, useless video or fails to record when needed isn’t of any use. Image quality is as complex as it is important. There are different ways of advertising image quality that can easily get confusing. These two cameras are an example of how confusing differences in terminology can be.
U1000 Resolution
The U1000 advertises a resolution of 4k at 30 FPS. Thi is considered ultra high-definition and can produce tightly detailed images that can easily be enhanced. With recordings at 30 FPS, there will be noticeable stutter, jitter, or hesitation, making identifying some details more of a challenge. The camera can be set to record at 2k and 60 FPS for smoother video.
The enhanced resolution comes as a result of the new and improved Sony STARVIS chipset that provides this camera with an 8.42 megapixel capability. It includes Super Night Vision, a digital enhancement that improves readability of objects in dim and dark situations.
Thinkware U1000
Pros
- Excellent image resolution using advanced 8.4MP camera
- Better than expected night recordings are clear and easy to see
- Discreet appearance, thankfully
Cons
- 4k video files eat up memory very quickly and can rewrite a card on one good drive
- High upfront initial cost and more expensive rear camera upgrade
Q800 Pro
Resolution on this camera is native 2.5k QHD at 60 FPS. The bump in pixels that results in the 2.5k count gives this camera excellent detail and light reproduction in most conditions. With an FPS of 60 in native mode, this camera will create smooth video. This aspect ratio provides excellent image quality. This camera receives the Sony STARVIS 5.14 mp chipset and the same enhanced digital night vision technology.
Thinkware Q800 Pro
Pros
- Fantastic images with low lag and clear resolution
- Looks high-tech and futuristic
- Great price point for the casual driver
Cons
- Resolution produces large files
- Some users report issues with spotty WiFi connection, causing interruption of video recording
Winner
The U1000 boasts a powerful camera with impressive resolution, but the Q800 Pro proves to edge the U1000 out. The main reason is the difference in the angle of viewing. The U100o has a 150 degree wide view to the Q800 with 140 degrees. The improved aspect ratio of the 2.5k resolution with the narrower field of view provides crisp, better images in most light conditions.
Side Note
The advanced STARVIS chipset showed its might at night, with much better ability to see license plates and street names on the U1000. Daytime footage was difficult to see much difference with a slight loss of quality on the U1000 images due to fishbowling.
Optional Features
Both of these cameras include a full suite of optional stuff to trick out your experience. They provide advanced driver assist technology that can warn you of stopping traffic ahead or the location of a speed camera you are approaching.
Both of these cameras can be optionally wired to provide parking monitoring that is triggered by impacts or motion detection. These files can be useful in tracking down thieves. Files are copy-protected in the event of an incident so that they are safe. Unused video is overwritten to prevent having to wipe the data card.
Both Cameras store images to the cloud that are accessible through the app. The app provides access to various settings, records, and other important information about your dash camera.
An optional and highly recommended upgrade is the addition of a rear facing camera. More accidents involve rear end collisions than any other type of impact. When a car hits you from behind, it is nice to have the video evidence that shows what happens.
There are differences in the backup cameras, too. The U1000 rear camera shoots in 1440 QHD, the same resolution as the Q800 front camera. The Q800-compatible camera records at 1080P resolution.
Conclusion
We really like the Q800 Pro. It has proven itself to be an excellent camera that looks like a high-tech product. It provides excellent quality video when we need it and provides excellent expansion functionality.
The most important thing about one of these cameras in your car is the ability to protect yourself from lawsuits and to ensure you can prove the events of an accident when it is in doubt who is responsible. Dash cameras are a leading tool in reducing insurance fraud which costs Americans about $80 billion every year.
The resolution and image quality looks great on the U1000. If money is no object, buy both this and the rear camera that is compatible. You’ll be perfectly happy and well protected. For the budget-conscious shopper, the Q800 Pro gives you the essential features you need at an affordable price. (>>> Find on Amazon)